Sergeant Bluff Personal Injury Attorneys

Sudden accidents and injuries can significantly disrupt lives. In such difficult times, personal injury lawyers are indispensable. They advocate for individuals affected by negligence, ensuring they receive proper compensation. This article highlights the critical role personal injury lawyers play in navigating claims and helping people reclaim their lives.

Bicycle Accidents in Iowa: How to Avoid Them and What to Do When It Happens to You

In Iowa, bicycle safety is a significant concern. In 2011 alone, there were five pedalcyclist fatalities, and Polk County had the most bicycle-car accidents from 2009-2014, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The goal is to reduce bicyclist accidents to zero. Here are some common types of bicycle accidents and how to prevent them, along with what to do if an accident occurs.

Common Types of Bicycle Accidents and Prevention Tips

1. Right Hook Accidents

A right hook accident occurs when a car making a right-hand turn cuts off a cyclist's path. These accidents often happen at intersections or when vehicles exit driveways or parking lots. To avoid a right hook accident:
- Position yourself slightly ahead of vehicles in the right-hand lane at red lights or stop signs so the driver can see you.
- Avoid passing vehicles on the right, as they may not see you if they decide to turn right.

2. Dooring Accidents

A "dooring" accident happens when a motorist opens a car door unexpectedly, hitting the cyclist or forcing them into traffic. To avoid dooring accidents:
- Use bike lanes separate from the road whenever possible.
- Stay alert for parked cars and slow down when approaching them.

3. Left-Turn Accidents

Left-turn accidents occur when a vehicle turns left at an intersection, failing to see an oncoming cyclist. To prevent these accidents:
- Equip your bike with lights and wear bright colors to increase visibility.
- Make eye contact with left-turning drivers before proceeding through intersections.
- Avoid riding on sidewalks where drivers do not expect fast-moving vehicles.

4. Failure to Yield

Cyclists failing to yield at intersections can lead to severe accidents. To stay safe:
- Exercise caution when entering intersections.
- Double-check that drivers see you, even if you have the right of way.

Iowa Bicycle Laws: Rules for Safety

Pass on the Left: Bicyclists must pass cars on the left, moving into the left lane before passing and returning to the right lane after passing.

Ride with Traffic: Always ride in the same direction as traffic. Riding against traffic is illegal and increases the risk of head-on collisions.

Use Lights When Dark: Use a white front light and a red rear light or reflector visible from at least 300 feet when riding after sunset or before sunrise.

Stop for School Buses: Cyclists must stop for school buses with flashing lights or stop signs displayed, just like motor vehicles.

Use Hand and Arm Signals: Use the left arm for signaling:
- Left turn: Arm extended horizontally.
- Right turn: Arm bent at the elbow, hand facing upwards.
- Slow down/stop: Arm bent at the elbow, hand facing downwards.

Report Traffic Crashes: Cyclists must report traffic crashes and exchange information with the other party involved.

Avoid Non-Bicycle Areas: Some areas, like interstates and certain highways, are off-limits to cyclists. Cities may also ban cycling on sidewalks.

What to Do If You’re in a Bicycle Accident

If you are involved in a bicycle accident in Iowa, follow these steps:
1. Seek Medical Attention: Ensure you and others receive medical care immediately.
2. Report the Accident: Contact local authorities and exchange information with other parties involved.
3. Collect Evidence: Gather details about the accident scene, including photos and witness statements.
4. Consult a Lawyer: Contact a personal injury law firm to discuss your legal options. 

Iowa Dramshop Law: Understanding Liability

Iowa’s Dramshop Law holds bars and establishments accountable for serving alcohol to intoxicated individuals who then cause harm. To prove a dramshop claim:
- Show the establishment served alcohol to someone they knew or should have known was intoxicated.
- Prove the establishment served alcohol to the point where it was reasonable to know the person would become drunk.

Establishments must exercise reasonable care to detect signs of intoxication and have dramshop liability insurance to cover damages caused by their patrons. However, the law does not apply to social hosts or retail companies selling packaged liquor.

Damages in dramshop cases include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death

We Are Here To Help

Remember, you are not alone in recovering from your injuries. We have helped thousands of Iowans through their physical, emotional, and financial recoveries. If you have questions about what you are going through, feel free to call our office for your confidential injury conference. We will take the time to listen to you and give you our advice concerning your injury matter at no cost or risk to you.

Free Book at No Cost 

If you are not ready to speak with an attorney yet but would like to learn more about Iowa injury cases including tips about how you can avoid making common costly mistakes request a copy of our Iowa Personal Injury book which includes 14 myths about Iowa injury cases and 5 things to know before hiring an attorney.

If you have specific questions about your injury matter feel free to call our office to speak with our Injury team at 641-792-3595 or use our Chat feature by clicking here 24 hours a day/7 days per week. Your information will remain confidential and there is no cost or obligation.